In a significant boost ahead of their Week 1 clash against the Dallas Cowboys, the Cleveland Browns have activated several key players. Among those who passed their physical examinations are Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, D'Anthony Bell, Greg Newsome II, and Dalvin Tomlinson, marking a pivotal moment for a team aiming to challenge their opponents with a more fortified lineup.
Jack Conklin's Return to Practice
Jack Conklin, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last year against the Cincinnati Bengals, has been a noticeable absence. Conklin's comeback has been highly anticipated, given that he missed 29 regular-season games over the past three seasons. His return to practice this summer is the first and much-needed step in reclaiming his position and providing stability to the offensive line once again.
Dawand Jones had initially stepped in to fill the void left by Conklin before he too succumbed to a season-ending injury. With Conklin back in the lineup, the Browns are injecting both experience and resilience back into their game strategy.
Jedrick Wills Jr. and the Battle at Left Tackle
Jedrick Wills Jr. also returns to action, having missed the final nine games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Houston due to knee surgery. The left tackle’s absence has been felt, as Germain Ifedi, James Hudson III, and rookie Lorenzo Thompson have been called upon to fill his shoes on the offensive line. Wills’ return shores up a crucial spot and adds much-needed depth and skill to the Browns’ offensive front.
Defensive Reinforcements
The defensive lineup sees the return of Greg Newsome II, who missed three regular-season games last year due to a hamstring injury. Newsome’s presence in the secondary is critical, particularly as Denzel Ward remains in concussion protocol—a developing situation that needs close observation.
D'Anthony Bell, who notched two interceptions last season, is another valuable asset rejoining the team. His contributions in the backfield could provide the defensive unit with a considerable boost against the high-octane offense of the Cowboys.
Dalvin Tomlinson’s Addition
A noteworthy addition is Dalvin Tomlinson, secured from Minnesota during the 2023 free agency. Tomlinson’s arrival represents a strategic acquisition aimed at bolstering the interior defensive line. His experience and skill set are anticipated to have an immediate impact as the Browns look to fend off the dynamic rushing attack led by Dallas.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these positive developments, the Browns face ongoing challenges. Star running back Nick Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List and will be sidelined for the first four weeks of the regular season. His absence will be a formidable obstacle given his pivotal role in the team's offensive production.
Additionally, rookie defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr. is expected to be placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List, further complicating the defensive depth chart as the league’s regular season gets underway.
Roster Decisions
The Browns have initiated their first wave of roster cuts, reducing their roster to 76 players. They must trim the active roster to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. These decisions come with significant weight as each player brings unique skills and contributions, making the final selections a challenging task for the coaching staff and front office.
As the Browns gear up for a crucial Week 1 encounter, the return of key players and the injection of new talent offer a blend of optimism and urgency. The decisions made in the coming days will inevitably shape the Browns' trajectory as they aim to secure an impactful start to their season.